5 days
Experience Northern California's Redwood National & State Parks
What you'll do
Redwood National and State Parks, a natural wonderland that stands as a testament to the majesty of ancient forests. Nestled along the rugged coastline of northern California, this awe-inspiring expanse of protected land is renowned for its towering giants—the iconic coast redwood trees, some of which have stood for over 2,000 years, reaching heights that seem to touch the sky. The parks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, encompass a diverse range of ecosystems, from lush, fern-laden canyons to pristine rivers and miles of pristine coastline. Visitors to Redwood National and State Parks can embark on a journey through time, exploring trails that wind beneath the colossal canopies of these ancient trees, immersing themselves in the serene ambiance of the temperate rainforest.
This unique and enchanting destination beckons nature enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone seeking solace in the embrace of nature's grandeur. And this 3-day itinerary is going to take you on a magical journey through this incredible park.
KNOW BEFOREHAND
Nearest Airport: There are actually a few different airports, all within similar driving distances of each other. We'd recommend searching flight info for each one to find the best deal!
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) Sacramento International Airport (SMF) Oakland International Airport (OAK)
Best time to go: Much of northern California coast, experiences a Mediterranean climate. This means mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The Pacific Ocean has a moderating effect on the climate along the coast, keeping temperatures relatively stable. The ocean acts as a temperature buffer, preventing extreme heat in the summer and cold in the winter. You will typically enjoy mild and pleasant temperatures year-round, with average highs in the 60s and 70s°F (15-25°C) in the winter and 70s to low 80s°F (20-30°C) in the summer.
Coastal areas, are known for their fog, especially during the summer months. This is often referred to as the marine layer. Fog can influence visibility and temperatures, making for cooler, overcast mornings.
While most locations are open year-round, there may be some seasonalities to operating hours and times, so we strongly recommend doublechecking each individual locations hours before visiting.
Our recommendation though, would be spring or fall months as this will help reduce crowds and peak season pricing.
Transportation: Since this is a road trip itinerary, a rental car will be needed. We've compiled this itinerary in a way that would start and finish at one of the San Francisco Bay Area airports listed above, all of which have car rentals available. So this would be our recommendation, but if you would prefer other modes of transportation, feel free!
OVERVIEW
Total mileage: 800 miles (1287km) Total drive-time: 16 hours Estimated cost: $1,000-$1,500 (This estimate is largely based on the cost of accommodations, gas and meals. Most of the activities are free or low-cost. It can certainly be cheaper or more expensive depending on your preferences. But we believe this is a realistic range based on activities).
Accommodations:
The hotels and accommodations in this itinerary were hand-picked by us based on our own experiences with these locations. We tried to provide alternative options where possible to offer both family-friendly and pet-friendly options. If our options do not fit your needs, we know there are other options along the route that should fit your needs.
Food & Drinks
While there are a few hotel and Airbnb accommodations in this itinerary, much of it is geared towards spending time in the National and States Park, along with their respective campgrounds. We are excluding meals from the itinerary, and would recommend either planning to pack or make your own food, or search nearby restaurant options. From our experience, Eureka and Crescent City have the most dining options around the parks.
National Park Fee
Redwood National Park is one of a handful of parks that does not require any entrance fee. The only costs would be for accommodations, activities, meals and gas.
Day 1
Day 1
Depending on your arrival time in to the SF Bay Area, how much ground you cover and what you day on the first day, may differ. We've outlined our itinerary in a way that would only having you drive from the airport to an accommodation on the first day to break up the driving. If you arrive early in the day, and wish you drive the full amount to the first stop, you can skip to Day 2.
Stop 1: Hotel/accommodation - We've selected 3 different accommodation options, from luxury, to family/dog-friendly, to an RV park. While these are the options we selected, there are definitely more options available, so we'd recommend doing further research if none of these options suit your needs.
hotel
Hampton Inn Ukiah
Pleasant retreat in Wine Country
Experience the ultimate in relaxation and convenience at Hampton Inn Ukiah. Located in the heart of wine country, just a few minutes from over 40 wineries and the Ukiah Speedway, the hotel offers breathtaking mountain views, an outdoor pool and koi pond, free WiFi and hot breakfast. With contemporary guest rooms featuring LCD TVs, plush beds and modern amenities – and pet-friendly rooms for companions who need a getaway too – there's no better place to stop on your next trip through Mendocino County. Plus, take advantage of our business center and other useful services to make sure you've got everything you need for a memorable stay.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but they do have a pet fee, so check with the hotel beforehand
Day 2
Day 2
From walking along suspension bridges up in the trees, to driving through them. This first full day will be full of fun adventures where you learn all about these amazing California redwood trees.
Stop 1: Drive-thru Tree Park - Drive-Thru Tree Park is an exciting attraction for travelers heading along the Redwood Highway in Leggett, California. It boasts a stunning 276-ft high and 16-ft wide Coast Redwood Tree aptly named the Chandelier Tree due to its unusual limbs. Visitors can take part in this amazing experience by paying a small fee to drive through its base.
Stop 2: Avenue of Giants - The Avenue of the Giants is an iconic Northern California scenic drive. This drive takes travelers through the majestic Redwood forest, where they can witness some of the tallest trees on Earth. Along the 31-mile route, tourists have the opportunity to explore crystal clear rivers, lush green plants and endless beauty.
Stop 3: Redwood Skywalk at Sequoia Park Zoo - The Redwood Sky Walk at Sequoia Park Zoo in Eureka, California is a self-guided, educational experience for all visitors. It offers a breathtaking view of the canopy and legendary old-growth redwood trees from 100 feet above the forest floor. With its 1/4 mile length, this is the longest sky walk in the western United States.
Stop 4: Hotel/Accommodation - We've selected 3 different accommodation options, from luxury, to unique, to a campground. While these are the options we selected, there are definitely more options available, so we'd recommend doing further research if none of these options suit your needs.
park
Drive-Thru Tree Park
Experience Redwoods & Nature
Drive-Thru Tree Park is an exciting attraction for travelers heading down the Redwood Highway in Leggett, California. It boasts a stunning 276-ft high and 16-ft wide Coast Redwood Tree aptly named the Chandelier Tree due to its unusual limbs. Visitors can take part in this amazing experience by paying a small fee to drive through its base - the tree has a 6-ft wide and 6-ft 9-inch high hole cut through it! The park also includes duck ponds, meadows, hiking trails, picnic tables, and a gift shop. A vintage postcard of the Chandelier Tree was even featured during the opening credits of the National Lampoon's Vacation movie.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but must be kept on leash, and please pack out their trash
Soft adventure: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: $5 for entry
Sightseeing
Avenue of the Giants
Spectacular forest drive
The Avenue of the Giants is an iconic Northern California road trip. This scenic drive takes travelers through the majestic Redwood forest, where they can witness some of the tallest trees on Earth. Along the 31-mile route, tourists have the opportunity to explore crystal clear rivers, lush green plants and endless beauty. While driving between Exit 672 and Exit 645, visitors will have plenty of chances to stop and take photographs or go for a short hike in the luxurious woods and witness the miraculous beauty that lies within the Avenue of the Giants.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but must be kept on leash, and please pack out their trash
Soft adventure: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: There is no fee
Sightseeing
Redwood Sky Walk at Sequoia Park Zoo
Learning & Exploring Redwoods From Above
The Redwood Sky Walk at Sequoia Park Zoo in Eureka, California is a self-guided, educational experience for all visitors. It offers a breathtaking view of the canopy and legendary old-growth redwood trees from 100 feet above the forest floor. With its 1/4 mile length, this is the longest sky walk in the western United States. The ascent ramp is 360 feet and the optional adventure segment is 369 feet, just shy of the height of the tallest living coastal redwood. This unique experience allows visitors to connect with nature in an exciting and unexpected way and it's a great way to learn about the rich hidden ecology of the world’s tallest trees. And don't forget - USA Today Readers voted this experience as the #1 Aerial Adventure Park in the nation!
Pet-friendly: No
Soft adventure: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: $25 for entry
hotel
Turtle Rocks Oceanfront Inn
Luxury beach getaway in Trinidad
Turtle Rocks Oceanfront Inn is the perfect destination for those looking for the ultimate luxury getaway! Located in the heart of Trinidad, California, this stunning bed and breakfast offers spectacular views of the Pacific and nearby rocks, as well as cozy and comfortable guest rooms. Each room offers a king sized bed, complete with wall-mounted televisions and high speed WiFi - allowing you to stay connected. Guests can explore local beaches and wander through the majestic Redwoods, all within a short drive away. Enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning, soak up the sunsets and sounds of the sea lions barking on the beach. Turtle Rocks provides the perfect opportunity for relaxation and sightseeing at its finest.
Pet-friendly: No
Day 3
Day 3
Day 3 is all about immersing yourselves in the National Park! On this day, you'll be getting out on the trails, so put your hiking shoes on and get ready to put some steps in!
Stop 1: Thomas H. Kutchel Visitor Center - The first stop of the day, is going to be the Thomas H. Kutchel Visitor Center. Whether it's to get maps, trail information, learn about the park, or to shop for some park related items, visiting the visitor center is always a good first stop.
Stop 2: Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail - The Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail is an easy and family-friendly 1.5 mile (2.5 km) loop that leads through a mixed forest of redwoods and conifers. It makes for a great first hike for the day!
Stop 3: Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway - The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is a ten mile drive in Prairie Creek State Park located in the southern third of Redwood National and State Parks. The parkway takes visitors past thousands of acres of old-growth redwood forests, providing an unforgettable experience. You'll be spending most of the day on this road, so don't worry about driving the whole thing all at once, you'll get to experience it all over the course of the day!
Stop 4: Big Tree Wayside & Karl Knapp Trail - We are combining two separate trails to create one looped hike. Big Tree Wayside is a wonder to behold with an old-growth coast redwood that is said to be over 1,500 years old and estimated to stand at 350 feet tall. The Karl Knapp Trail provides spectacular views of old growth redwood forests which includes a fallen redwood that you can even walk through! Depending on the season, wildflowers, wildlife, and rivers can also be seen during this moderately challenging hike.
Park at the Prairie Creek Visitor Center, and this hike will end up being a relatively flat and easy 2.9mi loop.
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/california/prairie-creek-to-big-tree-to-cathedral-trees?mobileMap=false&ref=sidebar-static-map
Stop 5: Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway - The rest of this day, is all views from the comfort of your vehicle. Once you've completed the Big Tree Wayside and Karl Knapp trails, hop in to your vehicle and drive the rest of the scenic parkway. And afterwards, head back to your accommodation for dinner, relaxation and get ready for your last day in the park!
Stop 6: Hotel/Accommodation - We've selected 3 different accommodation options, two campgrounds or an Airbnb. While these are the options we selected, there are definitely more options available, so we'd recommend doing further research if none of these options suit your needs.
park
Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center
Explore Redwood National Park
Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center is a great place for anyone exploring Redwood National Park. The center has a lot to offer, including educational films, friendly park rangers with valuable advice and great maps, and an amazing Pacific beach experience with tide pools and stunning views. For those looking for a thrilling outdoor experience, the park offers excellent hiking trails, whitewater rafting, kayaking tours, and bike tours. Visitors can also enjoy a picnicking area and plenty of parking for cars and RVs. Whether you're stopping for information, a restroom break, some souvenirs, or just some quiet relaxation, Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center has something for everyone!
Pet-friendly: No
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: There are no park entry fees
Hike
Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
Exploring Redwood Nature Trails
Located in Redwood National and State Parks, the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail is an easy and family-friendly 1.5 mile (2.5 km) loop that leads through a mixed forest of redwoods and conifers. This historically significant old-growth grove was established in 1969, when it was dedicated to former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson for her work in conservation and environmental protection. Visitors can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area, with its impressive trees and wildlife, and even have the opportunity to take part in daily ranger-led walks in the summertime. It's a perfect trip for nature lovers of all ages to explore and discover this unique corner of California.
Pet-friendly: No
Soft adventure: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: There is no park entry fee
Sightseeing
Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway
Immersive redwood experience for all
The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is a ten mile drive in Prairie Creek State Park located in the southern third of Redwood National and State Parks. The parkway takes visitors past thousands of acres of old-growth redwood forests, providing an unforgettable experience. Visitors have the chance to observe these majestic trees from any vehicle of any size, as well as from one of two ADA accessible trails, Big Tree Wayside and the Prairie Creek-Foothill Loop. On the first Saturday of every month from October to May, the parkway is closed off to motorized vehicles for Bike and Hike Day, making it the perfect destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. With stunning sights of redwoods and plenty of nearby trails, this scenic drive is not to be missed!
Pet-friendly: Yes, but must be kept on leash, and please pack out their trash
Soft adventure: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: There is no park entry fee
Hike
Big Tree Wayside
Awe-inspiring giant tree
Big Tree Wayside, located in Redwood National Park and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, is a wonder to behold with an old-growth coast redwood that is said to be over 1,500 years old and estimated to stand at 350 feet tall. The Giant, also known as "Big Tree Wayside" can be found at the end of a short paved trail from the main road and can be accessed via the Newton B Drury Parkway. With easy access and no hike-in required, this natural giant offers visitors an exciting and awe-inspiring opportunity. Whether taking photos or just simply admiring the beauty of the tree, Big Tree Wayside is definitely worth a visit!
Pet-friendly: No, pets are not permitted
Soft adventure: Yes, definitely!
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: There is no park entry fee
Hike
Karl Knapp Trail
Redwood walk-through tree adventure
The Karl Knapp Trail is an exciting and beautiful 2.9-mile loop located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and Redwood National Park near Orick, California. With an elevation gain of 213 feet, it provides spectacular views of old growth redwood forests which includes a fallen redwood that you can even walk through! Depending on the season, wildflowers, wildlife, and rivers can also be seen during this moderately challenging hike. As the trail passes by the Big Tree, visitors will experience the wonder and epic size of this natural wonder. Perfect for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike, the Karl Knapp Trail is always a great way to spend a day exploring and marveling at the beauty of the Redwoods.
Pet-friendly: No
Soft adventure: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: There is no park entry fee
campsite
Elk Prairie Campground
Outdoor nature wonderland
Elk Prairie Campground, located in the Redwood National and State Parks in California, is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience some of nature’s wonders. The campground offers amenities, such as fire rings, restrooms, and showers. It also provides beautiful views of the local area, including redwood forests, beaches, and rivers. Visitors can take advantage of a variety of activities, such as fishing, hiking, and swimming in nearby streams, allowing them to make the most out of their camping trip. Whether you are just wanting to get away or spend time exploring the area, Elk Prairie Campground is a great place to stay.
Pet-friendly: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Day 4
Day 4
Your last official day in the park! This will be an easy day than day 2, so don't worry if your feet are feeling it from the previous day's hikes.
Stop 1: Gold Bluffs Beach - Gold Bluffs Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach located in Orick, California. Visitors can experience the untouched nature of the area and enjoy a long walk on sandy shorelines surrounded by towering redwoods and dramatic cliffs.
Stop 2: Fern Canyon Trail - Fern Canyon Trail is a hike perfect for nature lovers. This magnificent and majestic trail follows the path of the Smith River in northern California's Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Featuring towering redwood trees, emerald moss and wetlands, Fern Canyon Trail is a photogenic adventure.
Fun fact: Parts of The Lost World: Jurassic Park movie were filmed in this canyon!
Stop 3: Trees of Myster - Trees of Mystery is an exciting attraction located in Klamath, CA. Visitors of all ages can explore the beauty of Redwood National and State Parks while walking on the Redwood Canopy Trail, taking a glide on SkyTrail, or learning about the amazing trees at Kingdom of Trees.
Stop 4: Klamath River Overlook - The Klamath River Overlook is an unforgettable spot at Redwood National and State Parks. Visitors to this breathtaking location can witness magnificent views of the mouth of the Klamath River, where it meets the Pacific Ocean. This waterfront area is a hotspot for wildlife watching with opportunities to spot migrating gray whales in the spring or fall, seals bobbing in the waves, and plenty of birds gliding through the sky.
This is a great place to enjoy a sunset!
Stop 5: Hotel/Accommodation - We've selected 3 different accommodation options, all of which are campgrounds. While these are the options we selected, there are definitely more options available around Crescent City, so we'd recommend doing further research if none of these options suit your needs.
beach
Gold Bluffs Beach
A Northern California beach experience
Gold Bluffs Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach located in Orick, California. Visitors can experience the untouched nature of the area and enjoy a long walk on sandy shorelines surrounded by towering redwoods and dramatic cliffs. The beach is easily accessible from the Prairie Creek Redwood State Park, where one can take a seven mile gravel road to get to the beach. Many visitors love coming here for the amazing views, the numerous hiking trails, and opportunities for surfing or kayaking. With its many attractions, Gold Bluffs Beach promises a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Make sure to explore the nearby Fern Canyon Trail while visiting this beach!
Pet-friendly: Yes, but must be kept on leash, and please pack out their trash
Soft adventure: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: There is no park entry fee
Hike
Fern Canyon Trail
Majestic and lush hike
Fern Canyon Trail is a hike perfect for nature lovers. This magnificent and majestic trail follows the path of the Smith River in northern California's Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Featuring towering redwood trees, emerald moss and wetlands, Fern Canyon Trail is a photogenic adventure. In summer months, lush ferns line the canyon walls, carving a lush green tunnel as they lead visitors along the trail. Hikers are drawn in by natural beauty of the park and have ample opportunities to do some wildlife watching or just enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Pet-friendly: No
Soft adventure: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: There is no park entry fee
Sightseeing
Trees of Mystery
Explore Redwoods and Treasures!
Trees of Mystery is an exciting attraction located in Klamath, CA. Visitors of all ages can explore the beauty of Redwood National and State Parks while walking on the Redwood Canopy Trail, taking a glide on SkyTrail™, or learning about the amazing trees at Kingdom of Trees. Guests can visit End of the Trail Museum, which features one of the largest private collections of artifacts and even get souvenirs from the Online Store. There's plenty of picture perfect settings to make lasting memories, so visit this premier nature attraction for an unforgettable experience.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not on the canopy trail and must be kept on leash, and please pack out their trash
Soft adventure: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: $25 for entry
Sightseeing
Klamath River Overlook
Breathtaking views of Klamath River
The Klamath River Overlook is an unforgettable spot at Redwood National and State Parks. Visitors to this breathtaking location can witness magnificent views of the mouth of the Klamath River, where it meets the Pacific Ocean. This waterfront area is a hotspot for wildlife watching with opportunities to spot migrating gray whales in the spring or fall, seals bobbing in the waves, and plenty of birds gliding through the sky. Plus, the park’s historical and interpretive signs teaching visitors about the area’s wildlife and cultural importance. Adventure seekers seeking even closer contact with nature can explore the adjacent “Klamath Section” of the California Coastal Trail, which leads down into the glorious ocean below. Pack a picnic and get ready for stunning sunset views - all while enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature!
Pet-friendly: Yes, but must be kept on leash, and please pack out their trash
Soft adventure: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Fee: There is no park entry fee
campsite
Mill Creek Campground
Relaxing outdoor retreat
Mill Creek Campground is the ultimate outdoor getaway, situated beneath towering trees with plenty of nature to explore. This campground in Redwood National Park and Del Norte Coast Redwood State Park offers up 145 total campsites and amenities such as hot showers, restrooms, food lockers and barbecue pits. Every campsite offers a secluded space ideal for lounging and taking in spectacular views. There are plenty of nearby activities to enjoy, including biking, fishing and boating at Mill Creek Watershed, horseback riding and paddling on the Klamath River and surfing at South Beach. Wildlife lovers can keep an eye out for local critters like mountain lion, coyotes, elk and black bears.
Pet-friendly: Yes
Seasonality: All seasons
Day 5
Day 5
Depending on your flight times, this day can either be an entire day of driving, or you can split up your drive like the first day, and stay at one of the accommodations on your way back. We recommend taking this at your own pace and doing what makes the most sense for your budget and travel needs.
Option 1: The first option, is to simply drive the full drive back to the airport. This would likely mean 6-7 hours of driving. While we wouldnt recommend this, we understand if time does not permit, that you might need to do this.
Option 2: Stay at any one of the accommodations listed on the previous days to break up your drive back to the Bay Area. This would allow you to potentially revisit any of the activities listed on the previous days, or maybe add in some new activities along the way back.
If you opt for option 2, we highly recommend visiting the Point Reyes area activities, Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints, or Sonoma/Napa Valley wineries. All of these can be found on our map or listed under Things To Do.
No matter what you choose, we hope you enjoyed this itinerary and feel like you got to fully experience and appreciate the beauty that is Northern California's redwoods!
hotel
Hampton Inn Ukiah
Pleasant retreat in Wine Country
Experience the ultimate in relaxation and convenience at Hampton Inn Ukiah. Located in the heart of wine country, just a few minutes from over 40 wineries and the Ukiah Speedway, the hotel offers breathtaking mountain views, an outdoor pool and koi pond, free WiFi and hot breakfast. With contemporary guest rooms featuring LCD TVs, plush beds and modern amenities – and pet-friendly rooms for companions who need a getaway too – there's no better place to stop on your next trip through Mendocino County. Plus, take advantage of our business center and other useful services to make sure you've got everything you need for a memorable stay.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but they do have a pet fee, so check with the hotel beforehand